SD Humane Society To Waive License, Microchip Fees Ahead Of July 4

SAN DIEGO, CA — In an effort to protect pets from getting lost this Fourth of July, the San Diego Humane Society will waive pet licensing and microchipping fees leading up to the holiday.

The nonprofit organization encourages pet owners to license their dogs and microchip their pets to prepare for Independence Day.

The holiday "typically leads to a sharp increase in the number of stray animals entering shelter care" because fireworks can spook pets, according to the San Diego Humane Society. The nonprofit's shelters are already full.

"We've never been in this situation before — entering the July 4 holiday having been over capacity for more than six months," said Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of San Diego Humane Society. "We can't stress enough how important it is for pet owners to have a plan to keep their pets safe — even for the unexpected, like unscheduled fireworks, in their neighborhoods."

The San Diego Humane Society is waiving pet licensing and microchipping fees from Tuesday through July 2. Late fees will also be waived.

A one-year license is available to residents who live within the nonprofit's jurisdiction. In-person licensing is available during business hours at the organization's campuses in El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside and San Diego. Dogs must have a California-approved rabies vaccination.

Free microchipping appointments can also be scheduled at any of the organization's campuses.

Statistics show one out of every three pets will become lost during their lifetime, and only one in 10 will be found, according to the San Diego Humane Society.

In 2022, the nonprofit took in 275 stray dogs, cats and other small animals lost between July 4 and 7. Just 16 percent of those pets were reclaimed by owners, according to the organization.

All San Diego Humane Society shelters will be closed on Monday, July 3, and Tuesday, July 4. Residents who find a stray pet over the holiday should look for identification on the animal's collar, contact the owner, if possible, and post photos and a description on social media, according to the organization.